Washington Wizards Must Add Another Big Man
Nov 7, 2015; Atlanta, GA, USA; Atlanta Hawks forward Paul Millsap (4) is defended by Washington Wizards center Marcin Gortat (13) in the first quarter of their game at Philips Arena. Mandatory Credit: Jason Getz-USA TODAY Sports
The Washington Wizards have had their ups and downs so far in this young NBA season. They currently hold a 3-3 record, but have now lost two straight games to the Atlanta Hawks and Boston Celtics. Coming into the season, the Wizards set high expectations for their frontcourt, but when looking at the roster, the depth really isn’t there.
None of the big men in the nation’s capital have been all that impressive this year. Marcin Gortat is the best big man on the team, but even he has struggled at times this season. Thus far, he’s averaging 9.7 points, 8.0 rebounds and 1.2 blocks per game. However, his scoring numbers are down from a season ago and his overall play has been inconsistent.
Gortat’s running mate in the starting lineup, Kris Humphries, has been less than stellar as well. The 11-year veteran is averaging just over seven points per game to go with five rebounds. These are simply not the type of numbers you are looking for from your starting bigs. Humphries and Gortat don’t even appear to be comfortable playing with one another right now.
The rest of the Wizards’ frontcourt players have been extremely inconsistent, including former starter, Nene. Jared Dudley and Drew Gooden also have not contributed as much as head coach Randy Wittman would like.
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It’s quite apparent, that the lack of offensive and defensive production from the big men is holding the Wizards back severely. If this teams wants to stand any chance of making noise in the Eastern Conference, they will likely need to trade for another big man.
Obviously, they must keep any trade offers within reason because remember, they will still pursue Kevin Durant next summer. There are definitely options, however. Washington should take a close look at a few players, who are capable of stretching the floor and have proven that they can produce, including Markieff Morris of the Phoenix Suns, Ryan Anderson of the New Orleans Pelicans and Terrence Jones of the Houston Rockets.
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The Wizards have made major strides over the past couple of seasons, but until they find a balance, they will not be taken seriously as a contender. John Wall is emerging as a superstar and Bradley Beal is finding his rhythm. Now it’s time to get the dynamic backcourt duo some help.